Sokoto-Alhaji Muntari Mafia , a chieftain of the PDP in Sokoto State, has reiterated the need for President Goodluck Jonathan to consider competence and merit in appointing new ministers.

“He should also bring in new people who will place  emphasis on the socio economic development of Nigeria and not on their personal interests,’’  Mafia said.

Mafia, speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN,  in Sokoto Saturday, advised  the President to take the whole country as his  constituency and political party.

“He is now the leader of all Nigerians, irrespective of any religious, political or ethnic differences,’’ said Mafia, who is also a board member of the state Pilgrims Welfare Agency.

“I am happy that Nigeria’s nascent democracy is progressing. Governors should do same and work for the progress of the whole country.’’

Mafia said the President should also to give adequate attention to power supply to solve the socio-economic problems associated with it.

Mafia advised the President to give priority to employment generation for the youth.

 “The high rate of unemployment among the youth is very disturbing.”